Household methods of making water safe for drinking :

Question

Accepted Answer

Option 4, "All options are correct," is the correct answer because each method listed in the options is a valid and effective way to make water safe for drinking at the household level. Here's a detailed explanation supporting this:

1. **Boiling**: Boiling water is one of the most effective methods to kill pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. By bringing water to a rolling boil for at least one minute, harmful microorganisms are destroyed, making the water safe for consumption. This method is widely recommended for its simplicity and effectiveness, especially in situations where water quality is uncertain.

2. **Use of Alum**: Alum, or aluminum sulfate, is commonly used in water purification processes to coagulate and remove suspended particles. When added to water, alum causes impurities to clump together and settle at the bottom, making it easier to filter out contaminants. While alum itself does not kill pathogens, it significantly improves water clarity and quality, making subsequent disinfection methods more effective.

3. **Ultra Violet Filter**: UV filters are a modern and highly effective method for disinfecting water. They work by exposing water to ultraviolet light, which penetrates the cells of microorganisms and disrupts their DNA, rendering them harmless. UV filtration is a chemical-free process that effectively eliminates bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens, ensuring safe drinking water.

Each of these methods has its own advantages and can be used individually or in combination to ensure water safety. Therefore, Option 4, "All options are correct," is justified as the correct answer because it acknowledges the validity and effectiveness of all the methods listed.